Computer Flashcards
What is a Computer? Def 1
an electronic machine, device for performing calculations and controlling operations that can be expressed either in logical or numerical terms.
What is a Computer? Def 2
an electronic device, operating under the control instructions stored in its own memory that can accept data (input), process the data according to specified rules, produce information (output), and store the information for future use.
What is a Computer? Def 3
A programmed device with a group of instructions to perform specific tasks and generate results at a really high speed.
Functionalities of a Computer
● Takes data as input.
● Stores the data / instruction in its
memory and use them when
required.
● Processes the data and converts it
into useful information.
● Generates the output.
● Controls all the above four steps.
Functionalities of a Computer Diagram
Data - Processing - Information
Applications of a Computer
● Millions of complex calculations can be done in a mere fraction of time
● Difficult decisions can be made with unerring accuracy for comparatively little cost
What does the applications domain of a computer depend on totally?
● Millions of complex calculations can be done in a mere fraction of time
● Difficult decisions can be made with unerring accuracy for comparatively little cost
Characteristics of a Computer
● Speed
● Accuracy
● Diligence
● Reliability
● Storage Capability
● Versatility
● Resource Sharing
Speed
Computer process data at an extremely fast rate –
millions of instructions per second in few seconds
Accuracy
level of accuracy depends on the instructions and the type of machine being used
Diligence
Computer being a machine does not suffer form the
human traits of tiredness and lack of concentration
Reliability
Computer being a machine does not suffer form the
human traits of tiredness and lack of concentration
Storage Capability
main memory of the computer is relatively small and
it can hold only a certain amount of information, therefore, the data is stored on secondary storage devices such as magnetic tape or disks.
Versatility
It can perform multiple tasks simultaneously with great
ease.
Resource Sharing
made the sharing of costly resources like printer
possible. It can also share among group of computers, thus creating a large information and knowledge base.
Advantages of a Computer
● Multitasking
● Speed
● Cost/Stores huge
● Accuracy
● Data Security
● Task Completer
● Communication
● Productivity
● Reduce workload
● Reliability
● Storage
Multitasking
Main advantages
Speed AC
helps human to finish their task in a few seconds.
Cost/Stores Huge
A centralized database for storing information is a major advantage that will reduce costs.
Accuracy (AC)
they will perform not only calculations but also with accuracy.
Data Security
Protecting digital data
Task Completer
Completes tasks that might be impossible for humans to complete.
Communication
helps the user better understand and communicate with other devices.
Productivity
The level of productivity gets automatically doubled as the computer can do the work very fast.
Reduce workload
Information is often accessed by more than one person with the necessity for work to be duplicated.
Reliability
Computers can perform the same sort of work repeatedly without throwing up errors.
Storage
The pc has an in-built memory where it can store an outsized amount of knowledge.
Disadvantages of a Computer
• Virus and Hacking Attacks
• Online Cyber Crime
• High Cost
• Distractions/Distruptions
• Increase waste and impacts the environment
• Health Problems
Virus and Hacking Attacks
Virus - may be a worm
Hacking - unauthorized access over a computer for a few illicit purposes
Online Cyber Crime
computers and networks may have been utilized in order to commit a crime
E.g Cyberstalking and fraud
High Cost
Expensive
Distractions/Disruptions
High entertainment value
Increase waste and impacts the environment
With the speed at that computer and other electronics get replaced, all of the old devices that get thrown away have a big impact on the environment
Health Problems
Prolonged use of computers can lead to various health Hazards.
Data vs Information
Data is a collection of facts, while information puts those facts into context.
While data is raw and unorganized, information is organized.
